2020 Ford Explorer price confirmed: The big changes for all trims

Ford has confirmed pricing and specifications of the 2020 Explorer, and while the all-new SUV is a little more expensive than its predecessor, the automaker insists you're getting a better deal overall. Unveiled in January, the new Explorer gains power and tech in its sixth generation, including a striking new dashboard design topped by an oversized touchscreen.

Perhaps aiming to head off criticism before it can mount, Ford is upfront about the fact that the 2020 Explorer is more expensive than before. In fact every model has seen a price increase, ranging from $400 at the entry-level, through to $8,115 at most. Ford's argument is that those changes are offset by more standard equipment at each trim level, however. Here's how the six 2020 Explorer trims break down.

At $36,675, the 2020 Explorer XLT is $2,275 more than the outgoing model. Ford makes up for that by adding a big chunk of what were formerly options as standard. On top of the Explorer spec, you get LED signature lighting, 18-inch five-spoke aluminum wheels, and heated exterior mirrors.

There's also new acoustic glass, for a quieter cabin, and the driver and passenger get power-adjusting seats. The second row has captain's chairs, and there are two extra USB ports. Keyless entry and push-button start are standard on the XLT, as are reverse sensors. The driver gets a larger, 6.5-inch display in the center cluster.

Ford's 2020 Explorer Limited Hybrid didn't have a direct predecessor in the old range, but at $51,685 it carries a $3,555 premium over the gas-only EcoBoost model. That gets you a 3.3-liter hybrid drivetrain and a 10-speed modular hybrid transmission. In rear-wheel drive form, Ford says you should manage more than 500 miles of driving on a full battery and a full tank of gas.

Towing capacity for the hybrid is up to 5,000 pounds. It gets the same core specification as the regular Explorer Limited, but does add in Active Noise Control to further cut cabin sound. 20-inch hand-polished aluminum wheels with uprated brakes are also included.

Arguably the version of the new SUV we're most intrigued by, the 2020 Explorer ST will be the performance-minded version of the group. As well as being the most powerful, with its 3.0-liter EcoBoost rated for 400 horsepower and 415 lb-ft of torque, it also sees the biggest price increase. The ST rises $8,115 over last year's Explorer Sport, to $54,750.

Still, there's a lot of standard equipment for that. Adaptive cruise control is included, as is enhanced active park assistance. There's sportier steering tuning and faster throttle response, and the ST rides on special 21-inch aluminum wheels with sport-tuned suspension. They get red brake calipers clamping down on larger rotors, too.

Styling changes include a unique ST grille, and new bumpers front and rear. There's a quad-tip exhaust and folding mirrors. Inside, heated and cooled seats are joined by a memory drive's seat, mirrors, and pedals. There's wireless charging too, plus Ford Performance scuff plates, unique seat stitching, and a special ST steering wheel. A 110-volt inverter outlet is standard, while the cargo management system should help your luggage from sliding around while you're taking corners more aggressively.